Reliance Jio, spearheaded by India’s wealthiest individual Mukesh Ambani, has expanded its cloud PC service, JioPC, to all internet users in India, aiming to transform aging computers into AI-capable devices without necessitating hardware upgrades. Initially launched in July 2025 exclusively for Jio broadband subscribers, JioPC is now available as a standalone subscription, streaming a virtual PC from Jio’s cloud to the user’s existing computer. The service offers configurations with up to eight virtual CPUs, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage, with pricing starting at ₹1,000 (approximately $11) for a two-month plan.

Jio positions this service as a solution to extend the lifecycle of older computers, which IDC estimates numbered over 65 million in India in 2025, by providing access to modern AI applications through cloud computing. However, the model faces challenges, including India’s traditional preference for owning hardware over subscribing to services, potential dependency on stable internet connectivity, and competition from low-cost refurbished PCs. Additionally, JioPC’s claim of delivering an “AI-ready” experience is questioned, as the service specifications do not highlight dedicated AI accelerators typically found in new-generation AI PCs. The success of JioPC will largely depend on consumer acceptance of paying for computing power as a recurring service rather than investing in new hardware. Source

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